Chapter III

Figures and their background, therefore, are more than opposing elements. Together, they form an inseparable reality- a unity of opposites- just as the elements of form and space together form the reality of architecture. (Ching 102)

Form and space are two interconnected concepts within architecture. Form creates space and space holds form. Architecture is an intersection between form or mass and space... both coming together to create a structure that is both spacial and massed.

This shows the form is the structure of the building and the space that is within the form. 

Horizontal planes make up much of the interactive surface within a space. depressed planes are horizontal planes that are set below the main ground surface plane. This creates a new plane defined by the vertical planes that surround the depressed plane.

This depressed plane is set below ground level to create an intmate seating pit.

Parallel planes create a space within both vertical surfaces. These planes create a space that moves directionally towards both open ends of the space. The most common example of this in architecture would be in hallways or corridors. 

This hallway is made up of two parallel vertical planes creating a passageway within the home. 

Openings between planes create a visually separate look and clearly define the edges of said planes. these openings can be vertical or horizontal but always span from one plane to another, meaning, these openings cannot stop midplane, they must span the whole length or width.  

This wall of glass visually separates the ceiling plane and the floor plane creating an opening between planes.

Light is used as an element to enhance architecture and highlight forms and space. Natural light enters a space through openings in planes that are windows, doors, or skylights. How sunlight impacts and enters a space can be clearly defined by looking at the suns path in relation to site orientation

Sunlight enters this kitchen through a large skylight and a wall of glass doors.